Get Ready For Your Northern Territory Learners Test

Welcome to our NT Driver Knowledge Test resources! It’s no surprise that the Northern Territory is often referred to as the heart of Australia, as from the tropical beaches of Kakadu National Park to Uluru, or Ayers Rock, in the “red centre,” the NT has some of the best scenery the outback has to offer. It’s all just a car ride away, once you get your driver licence. On this page, you’ll find FREE resources you need to achieve the goal of getting your licence. You can start by studying the appropriate manual; simply click the Driver’s Handbook tab, and you’ll find the 2018 NT Road Users’ Handbook, Motorcycle Riders’ Handbook, or Heavy Vehicle Drivers’ Handbook. We also provide an FAQ with all the information you need about applying for your permit and licence. Once you feel comfortable with the information, you can start taking our practice tests, based on the very latest information from the road users’ handbook, and phrased like questions on the real exam. When you’ve mastered the practice exams, you’re ready for the NT Test Simulator – our hardest practice exam, and most similar to the real test, with no hints or explanations, and the same pass/fail rate as the actual test. Once you’ve mastered it, you’ll be ready to breeze right through your NT learner’s test. Good luck!

How can I contact my NT Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) outlet?

Can I bring someone with me when I take my Northern Territory Theory Test?

You’re welcome to bring a friend or family member with you to the testing location - but there’s no one you’re required to bring.

Will I receive a physical exam when I apply for my Northern Territory learner licence?

No, but you do have to alert the government if you have any medical condition - including an eyesight issue - that could impact your ability to drive.

Will I receive an eyesight test when I apply for my Northern Territory learner licence?

Yes, you’ll have to demonstrate that your visual acuity measures at least 0.5 (6/12) on the Snellen scale. If you wear glasses or contacts, you should wear them to the office when you go to take the Theory Test.

Will I get my photo taken when I apply for my Northern Territory learner licence?

Yes, the office will take your photo when you pass the Theory Test.

Should I avoid wearing certain colours when I get my licence photo taken?

No, there’s no particular colour you need to watch out for - just wear anything you normally would!

Should I pull my hair back when I get my licence photo taken?

Only if it covers your eyes or face. Your licence photo needs to enable you to be identified clearly, so your whole face has to be clearly visible in it.

Should I avoid wearing makeup for my licence photo?

Not necessarily, since the goal is to look as much like your 'everyday self' as possible. Just don’t cake it on too thickly!

Can I smile in my licence photo?

No, although it’s a bit boring, you have to keep a totally straight face in the photo. This will make it easier to confirm your identity using your licence.

What else can I do to make sure I get a nice-looking licence photo?

There really isn’t much else you can do. Just relax, look straight into the camera, and try not to blink at the flash!

I’m ready to get my Northern Territory learner licence. What do I do?

Once you’ve passed your Theory Test - along with a simple eyesight test - you’ll become a learner driver, which means you’ll be legally qualified to start practising driving with a supervisory driver in the car.

I can’t find my question here. Where can I get it answered?

You may want to check out our Beginner Driver Q & A Section, where we’ve got some professional driving experts who can probably help you out. You can also feel free to send us an email anytime: drivingtestsorg@gmail.com

What should I study to prepare for my Northern Territory Theory Test?

The only book you’ll need to know is the Northern Territory Road Users’ Handbook, which contains all the material covered on the test. If you want to pass the test on your first try, then study that little book until you know it back-to-front!

What online tools can help me get ready for my Northern Territory Theory Test?

Check out the 3 FREE practice tests right here on this website! They’re full simulated tests, and all three of them use actual questions from the Northern Territory Theory Test. Start with the first one right here: Northern Territory Theory Practice Test 1. Once you can consistently score high on our practice tests, you shouldn’t have any problem with the real test!

Use both those approaches together - studying the handbook and practising with our free tests - and before you know it, your practice scores will start to rise!

Do I have to enrol in driving school to get my Northern Territory learner licence?

No, but it’s highly recommended anyway. A driving class will make you more likely to pass your tests on the first try, and it’ll also make you a safer driver in general. Plus, it can be a lot more affordable than you’d think! The NT Department of Transport recommends DriveSafe NT, a driver education, training and licensing program that operates in the Greater Darwin area and Alice Springs.

Where can I get a copy of the Northern Territory Road Users’ Handbook?

You can buy a hardcopy of the booklet from any Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) outlet (or NT Police Outstation in remote areas).

Is the whole Northern Territory Road Users’ Handbook going to be covered on the Theory Test?

Yes, it is, so make sure you know the whole thing! Each test includes a randomised series of questions from all areas of the handbook.

Is there a Northern Territory Theory Test app for my iPhone/iPad?

There will be soon! We’re in the process of creating one, and it’ll be available for download right here as soon as it’s ready. So check back with us!

What are some questions that’ll be on the Northern Territory Theory Test?

Each test’s questions are a bit different, because they’re randomly chosen from all chapters of the Northern Territory Road Users’ Handbook. You can be sure you’ll see questions about driving laws, road safety, traffic signs, speed limits, hazards, and all the other topics covered in the book. By the way, some websites claim to provide sample tests, but only provide a portion of the test for free, then try to charge you for the rest. Don’t fall for it! Instead, just practise with the 3 FREE full practice tests we’ve make available right here, beginning with the first one: Northern Territory Theory Practice Test 1. People practise for the Northern Territory Theory Test with our tests every day... and they pass!

Where can I find some free practice tests for the Northern Territory Theory Test?

Where will I go for my Northern Territory Theory Test?

What should I do on the night before my Theory Test?

If you’ve studied your entire Northern Territory Road Users’ Handbook, and you’re scoring high on the free practice tests available on this website, then you’re probably ready! Just get a good night’s sleep and stay relaxed.

How will I know when I’m ready for my Northern Territory Theory Test?

Are you scoring high on our 3 FREE full practice tests, beginning with the first one: Northern Territory Theory Practice Test 1? Are you familiar with all the chapters of your Northern Territory Road Users’ Handbook,? If so, then you’re probably ready!

I’m ready to attempt my Northern Territory Theory Test! What do I do now?

Formal NT Government correspondence identifying residential address (dated within one year of the application)

Formal Federal Government correspondence identifying residential address (dated within one year of the application)

Australian Taxation Office Assessment (last or current financial year) identifying the applicant and current residential address. (Please block out any reference to your Tax File Number.)

Australian Educational Institution document identifying the applicant and the residential address

Parent or Guardian

Evidence of Residency Verification

(MVR Form M18)

How much will I have to pay to get my Northern Territory learner licence?

To get your Northern Territory learner licence, you’ll have to pay a Theory Test fee of $20.00 as well as a learner licence fee of $22.00. Don’t forget to bring this money with you on the day of your Theory Test!

Can I bring another person with me when I sit my Northern Territory Theory Test?

Sure! You’ll have to take the test alone, but you’re welcome to bring anyone you’d like to the office with you.

How should I practise for my Northern Territory Theory Test?

Check out the 3 FREE practice tests right here on this website! They’re full simulated tests, and all three of them use actual questions from the Northern Territory Theory Test. Start with the first one right here: Northern Territory Theory Practice Test 1. Once you can consistently score high on our practice tests, you shouldn’t have any problem with the real test!

Use both those approaches together - studying the handbook and practising with our free tests - and before you know it, your practice scores will start to rise!

How many questions are there in the Northern Territory Theory Test?

The test consists of 30 randomised multiple choice questions.

What are some frequent mistakes people make in the Northern Territory Theory Test?

The most frequent mistake people make is to rush through the test. This is a silly thing to do, because the test isn’t timed - and it’s actually not that difficult as long as you’ve studied and practised.So just relax, go slowly, and read each question fully. If you’re having a hard time focusing on a particular question, just stop and take a few slow breaths - or move on to another question, and come back to that one later. The bottom line is that if you stay calm, you’ll do fine!

Can I use my Northern Territory Road Users’ Handbook in my Theory Test?

No, it’s not an open-book test. The point is to make sure you know the whole handbook - so make sure you do!

Will I get drug-tested when I apply for my Northern Territory learner licence?

Yes, you will. If you pass the Theory Test, you’ll also have to prove there’s no alcohol or drugs in your system before you can get a learner licence.

Where’s the easiest place to sit the Theory Test?

There is no ‘easiest’ place, because every testing location uses the same randomised tests. The good news is, though, that you probably won’t have much trouble on the test as long as you’ve studied your handbook and practised with the tests on this website.

Where can I read some success stories from people who’ve passed their Northern Territory Theory Test?

Right here on our website. People practise for the NT Theory Test with our practise tests every day - and it’s proven to work!

What happens if I fail my Theory Test?

Nothing terrible - you’ll just have to re-attempt it; that’s all. You’ll need to wait 24 hours before you can take the test again, and you’ll have to pay the test fee again each time you attempt it. Other than that, though, you’re free to keep resitting it as many times as you need to.

Before you leave the testing location, though, it’s a good idea to find out exactly what questions you got wrong, so you’ll know which areas you need to study for next time.

How long do I have to wait before I can re-attempt the Theory Test after I fail?

You’ll need to wait 24 hours before you can take the test again, and you’ll have to pay the test fee again each time you attempt it. Other than that, though, you’re free to keep resitting it as many times as you need to.

Before you leave the testing location, though, it’s a good idea to find out exactly what questions you got wrong, so you’ll know which areas you need to study for next time.

What conditions apply to me while I’m on a Northern Territory learner licence?

You must:

Maintain zero blood alcohol concentration at all times.

Not to exceed 80 kilometres per hour unless you’re under the direct supervision of an instructor conducting an approved training program.

Display L plates clearly visible to the front and rear.

Be accompanied (in the passenger seat) by a fully licensed driver (not provisional) at all times whilst driving.

Not use a mobile phone while the vehicle is moving, or is stationary but not parked. All mobile telephone use including hands-free operation is prohibited whilst driving for the duration of the learner period.

Be subject to the Demerit Points Scheme (DPS), which means you can lose your licence if you get 5 demerit points in 1 year.

You’ll also get a learner logbook, in which you’ll need to log at least 100 hours of supervised driving before you can move on to the next stage. So keep the book in your car at all times, and don’t forget to fill it out!

Where can I drive on my Northern Territory learner licence?

Just about anywhere! Be careful, though, to abide by the conditions on your licence, including driving with a supervisor at all times.

Fantastic! You did it! Now you’ll get your learner licence, which means you’re free to drive under certain restrictions (listed below) with a supervisor driver in the car.

You must hold your learner licence for a period of 6 continuous months before you’ll be eligible to sit your practical driving test.

In the meantime, you must:

Maintain zero blood alcohol concentration at all times.

Not to exceed 80 kilometres per hour unless you’re under the direct supervision of an instructor conducting an approved training program.

Display L plates clearly visible to the front and rear.

Be accompanied (in the passenger seat) by a fully licensed driver (not provisional) at all times whilst driving.

Not use a mobile phone while the vehicle is moving, or is stationary but not parked. All mobile telephone use including hands-free operation is prohibited whilst driving for the duration of the learner period.

Be subject to the Demerit Points Scheme (DPS), which means you can lose your licence is you get 5 demerit points in 1 year.

You’ll also get a learner logbook, in which you’ll need to log at least 100 hours of supervised driving before you can move on to the next stage. So keep the book in your car at all times, and don’t forget to fill it out!

What should I do to practise for my Northern Territory practical driving test?

The most important, and most beneficial, thing you can do is simply to get plenty of driving practice!

Start out driving on roads that are familiar to you, then work your way up to driving in unfamiliar areas, in different weather conditions, in different traffic patterns, and in other types of situations that’ll expand your skills.

Be a safe driver - and know what all the mirrors, levers, and other major components of your car do.

Where in the Northern Territory can I practise my driving skills?

Anywhere you like! As long as you’ve got a supervisor driver in the car with you, and you follow NT’s driving laws, you can drive anywhere - so get lots of practise driving in all sorts of different situations.

Why is driving practice so important for my practical driving test?

The practical test is exactly what it sounds like: a hands-on examination of your driving ability. That means the only way you’re going to pass is if you’ve got experience handling your car safely, following the laws of the road, responding correctly to potential hazards, and handling all the other key aspects of standard day-to-day driving. The more you practise on the road, the more likely you are to pass the test!

Do I need to take a driving class before my practical driving test?

No - but it’s still a very good idea. A driving class will make you more likely to pass your test on the first try, and it’ll also make you a safer driver in general. Plus, it can be a lot more affordable than you’d think! The NT Department of Transport recommends DriveSafe NT, a driver education, training and licensing program that operates in the Greater Darwin area and Alice Springs.

What will happen in my Northern Territory practical driving test?

The entire test takes about 35 minutes.

You’ll start by getting into the car with the examiner, who’ll ask you to perform each of the following basic maneuvres:

a hill start,

a reverse parallel park

a 90 degree angle park

a 'U' turn (180 degree turn)

If you pass that part of the test, then the examiner will direct you to pull out of the testing area and drive for about 10 minutes on normal roads and streets. During this part of the test, you’ll have to follow all the examiner’s instructions while also following the standard rules of the road.

How long do I have to drive on my learner licence before can I take my Northern Territory practical driving test?

You can take your practical driving test when you’ve driven on your learner licence for at least 12 months, and have logged at least 100 hours of supervised driving in your learner logbook.

How hard is it to pass the Northern Territory practical driving test?

It’s actually not too hard, as long as you’re a safe driver on a daily basis. Getting lots of on-road practice - and, better yet, some supervised driving instruction, will also help a lot. But the biggest enemy is really just your own nerves - so stay calm during the test and just focus on following the examiner’s instructions. And above all, don’t try to hurry through the test. It’s only about 35 minutes long, and the surest way pass is to drive carefully.

What should I do on the night before my practical driving test?

Most importantly, relax! Keeping a clear head will go a long way toward helping you pass the test - as will getting a good night’s rest. As long as you’ve gotten plenty of on-road practice, you’re going to do just fine. For a bit of extra help, try reading this article - which is from an American website, but offers some tips that might be helpful for the night before your test: 7 Things NOT To Do The Night Before Your DMV Test.

How do I book my Northern Territory practical driving test?

You can book your test at any MVR Office either in person, or by phone if you have a current credit card. Police Outstation bookings (in remote areas) should be made by arrangement with the local Police officers.

Where will I go to take my Northern Territory practical driving test?

You’ll go to the MVR Office where you’ve made your appointment. Don’t forget to confirm the date, time, and location when you book!

Do I need to bringing my own car to my practical driving test?

Yes, and it’s your responsibility to make sure that it’s registered, roadworthy and clean. It also must fall within the class 'C' category, and, regardless of age, must provide a fully operational seatbelt for the testing officer’s use, and 'L' plates must be displayed, and clearly visible, to the front and rear of the vehicle.

Can another person ride along with me for my Northern Territory practical driving test?

No, it’ll be just you and the examiner in the car. This is to prevent you from asking for help during the test - and also to keep you from getting distracted.

How can I pass my Northern Territory practical driving test on the first attempt?

Follow the examiner’s instructions carefully, and ask questions if you’re not sure.

Be aware of your environment and your vehicle.

Just take your time, don’t try to hurry, and concentrate on using the skills you’ve practised.

What’s going happen in my Northern Territory practical driving test?

The entire test takes about 35 minutes.

You’ll start by getting into the car with the examiner, who’ll ask you to perform each of the following basic maneuvres:

a hill start,

a reverse parallel park

a 90 degree angle park

a 'U' turn (180 degree turn)

If you pass that part of the test, then the examiner will direct you to pull out of the testing area and drive for about 10 minutes on normal roads and streets. During this part of the test, you’ll have to follow all the examiner’s instructions while also following the standard rules of the road.

Why do some people fail their Northern Territory practical driving test?

Your chances of failing are actually fairly low as long as you follow instructions and don’t break any laws. These are some of the most common reasons that people fail:

Yes, absolutely. You want to make sure you can see clearly for the test.

Will I have to resit my Theory Test when I do my practical driving test?

No, you’ll never have to resit your Theory Test.

What will happen if I fail my Northern Territory practical driving test?

Just a retest. You’ll need to wait 24 hours before you can take the test again, and you’ll have to pay the test fee again each time you attempt it. Other than that, though, you’re free to keep redoing it as many times as you need to.

Before you leave the testing location, though, it’s a good idea to ask the examiner exactly what you did wrong, so you’ll know which areas you need to practise for next time.

Why do some people develop a fear of driving? How can I manage this fear?

A fear for driving can develop for a whole range of reasons, and everyone has their own. One of the most common reasons is that a person was in an accident. Since our brains are wired to remember traumatic memories very clearly, that incident may have made the person afraid to ever be in charge of a vehicle again. But driving is actually not all that dangerous as long as you follow the rules of the road and stay aware of your environment. If you’re trying to manage your fear of driving, visit www.fear-of-driving.org. And practise driving safely, so you can build up your confidence through experience.

What are some general pointers for the Northern Territory practical driving test?

Make sure you arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled testing time.

I passed my Northern Territory practical driving test! What’s next?

You did it! You’re now free to drive alone on your new class 'C' Provisional licence!

After you turn 25, you’ll be eligible to upgrade your class 'C' provisional license to a full licence, which has some slightly more relaxed conditions.

Are there any special restrictions on my class 'C' Provisional licence?

Once you have your L2 licence, you can now drive unsupervised!

However, all class 'C' Provisional licences are issued subject to the following conditions:

Zero blood alcohol concentration.

Not to exceed 100 kilometres per hour.

Must display P plates clearly visible to the front and rear of the vehicle

Must not use a mobile phone, including hands free, while the vehicle is moving, or is stationary but not parked.

All drivers are subject to the NT Demerit Points Scheme (DPS), in which you must receive fewer than 5 demerit points in 1 year.

What should I be aware of when driving in the Northern Territory?

You should definitely know the Northern Territory’s average speed limits: usually 40km/h in school zones, 50km/h in built-up areas, and 100 km/h in rural areas - unless other speed limit signs are posted.

Don’t forget to be aware of bikeways (also known as bicycle lanes), which are special lanes for bicycles only, not cars. You’ll get demerits if you drive in one of these lanes.

For everyone’s safety, don’t EVER drink and drive. The Northern Territory is extremely strict about DUI (driving under the influence of alcohol), and you will lose your licence - or, at the very least, get it suspended, and have to go through a long process to get it back - if you get caught any alcohol whatsoever in your body while driving.

I Failed One of My Northern Territory Tests! What Now? Frequently Asked Questions

You’ll need to wait 24 hours before you can take the test again, and you’ll have to pay the test fee again each time you attempt it. Other than that, though, you’re free to keep redoing it as many times as you need to.

I failed my Northern Territory Theory Test or practical driving test! What do I do now?

Before you leave the testing location, talk to your examiner and figure out exactly what you did wrong, so you’ll know which areas you need to practise for next time.

Just be aware that you’ll have to pay the test fee again, and also book a new appointment (in the case of the practical driving test) each time you want to re-attempt the test.

How Does Car Insurance Work in the Northern Territory? Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of car insurance do I need for driving in the Northern Territory?

The Northern Territory Department of Transport requires all drivers to carry third-party insurance, which gets its name from the fact that it covers 'third parties' like other drivers and property owners. It does not, however, cover damage to you or your own vehicle - so you’ll probably want to get an insurance plan that covers a bit more than just the minimum, in case you get into an expensive accident and need some financial help.

What do I need in order to sign up for car insurance in the Northern Territory?

All you’ll need to get started are your car and driver’s licence!

How much should I expect to pay for car insurance in the Northern Territory?

As nice as it’d be to have a single simple answer to this question, the truth is that it depends on a lot of factors about your current situation. Rates can vary widely depending on your age, the number of people carried on your policy, the make and model of your car, the number of demerits on your driving record, and a lot of other things. Plus, each insurance company calculates its rates a bit differently, and offers various promotions and special offers to different people at different times.

How can I find the best car insurance price in the Northern Territory?

Investigate for yourself! Many insurance companies’ websites - especially those of the big-name companies - offer online calculators that calculate the rate the company would give you based on the specifics of your situation. Those specifics include a variety of different factors. Some of the major factors that affect your rate will be:

Whether you received any formal driving instruction.

How long you’ve been driving, and how your record looks.

How hard the company is promoting itself against its competitors.

The make and model of your car, since certain cars (and even cars of certain colours!) are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents.

Why is car insurance for new drivers so much more expensive in the Northern Territory?

New drivers are statistically more dangerous than experienced ones. In fact, research has found that approximately 50% of drivers under age 20 get at least one demerit on their record, or get into at least one accident, within their first year of driving. This is often because younger drivers tend to speed, which lands them in a lot of accidents that could’ve been easily avoided with more careful driving. Higher-risk drivers tend to cost the insurance companies more money, so they charge more to carry new drivers. But as you build up a clean driving record over the years, your insurance rates will steadily drop.

Is my learner licence from another Australian State or Territory, or from New Zealand, valid in the Northern Territory?

Yes - but while you're a learner driver, you have to obey the Northern Territory’s learner rules:

Maintain zero blood alcohol concentration at all times.

Not to exceed 80 kilometres per hour unless you’re under the direct supervision of an instructor conducting an approved training program.

Display L plates clearly visible to the front and rear.

Be accompanied (in the passenger seat) by a fully licensed driver (not provisional) at all times whilst driving.

Not use a mobile phone while the vehicle is moving, or is stationary but not parked. All mobile telephone use including hands-free operation is prohibited whilst driving for the duration of the learner period.

Be subject to the Demerit Points Scheme (DPS), which means you can lose your licence if you get 5 demerit points in 1 year.

Can I drive on my out-of-country licence or learner licence in the Northern Territory?

Yes - but you must change over your driver licence and vehicle registration within three (3) months of residing in the Northern Territory. To do this, you’ll need to:

provide a valid and current overseas driver licence

provide an international driving permit (issued in country of origin) or:

an official translation of the overseas licence into English by an Authorised Translator; or

an original letter from the licensing authority in the country of origin or the relevant consul or diplomatic corps confirming the licence details and status; or

an original letter from the licensing authority in the country of origin or the relevant consul or diplomatic corps confirming the licence details and status.

Other Frequently Asked Questions About Driving in the Northern Territory

At what age can I start driving legally in the Northern Territory?

You can start driving on a - with a licenced supervisor in the car - when you’re 16 years old, as long as you’ve passed the Theory Test and gotten your learner licence.

What’s the legal limit for alcohol in my blood when I’m driving in the Northern Territory?

ZERO percent. If you’re driving on a learner or provisional licence, you’ll lose it in an instant - or at the very least, get it suspended and have to work hard to earn it back - if you’re caught driving with a blood alcohol content that’s anything above 0.00%. Even after you’ve completed your provisional driving period, though, please NEVER drink and drive. No matter how harmless or necessary it feels in the moment, it’s never safe, and it’s likely to have serious consequences for you and the people around you.

What do people mean when they use the phrase ‘defensive driving’?

They mean being aware of your surroundings while you drive, and taking steps to avoid hazards. Defensive driving also includes being aware of your own vehicle’s condition, as well as your own mental state, and planning a bit ahead to prevent all sorts of trouble. Here’s how ‘Safe Practices for Motor Vehicle Operations’ defines defensive driving: 'driving to save lives, time and money, in spite of the conditions around you and the actions of others'. Studies have shown that 90% of driving accidents are the result of avoidable mistakes, which is why it’s so important to think about driving in this way.

You can learn defensive driving in many driving courses - and in fact, drivers who’ve taken these courses can usually get discounts on their insurance. Here are some other ways you can start practicing defensive driving right now:

Leave plenty of room in front of your vehicle when driving in traffic.

Keep an eye on your mirrors, and pay attention to what’s happening 360 degrees around you.

Obey speed limits - but don’t expect others to do the same.

Don’t assume that any other driver sees you!

Some people never get a driver’s licence. Why is that?

People make this choice for a lot of different reasons, and the easiest way to find out is just to ask. Some people were involved in a traumatic accident; others just don’t have much interest in traveling far from home. Still others have someone else to drive them. Getting a driver’s licence takes time and work, and it’s not for everyone. You’ll have to make the choice for yourself.

Here's What Other Learners from NT Are Saying:

"All of the tests here are just the same as the real test at MVR, I passed thanks to this site!"

Jude Damian, NT

"Huge thanks to the people behind this site. I passed with 29/30 on the multiple choice test. Loads of the questions were identical to the ones on this site and I doubt I would have passed if I hadn’t found this site. I definitely recommend this site to anyone about to take their learners test, you are sure to pass."